Main Content

Learn More About This Painful Heart Condition

Pericarditis—Learn More About This Painful Heart Condition

If you’re experiencing sharp chest pain, you might have pericarditis. At The Palm Beach Clinic in West Palm Beach, located near the beautiful Palm Harbor Marina, cardiologist Dr. Chauncey Crandall treats pericarditis and numerous other heart conditions.

What Is Pericarditis?

Pericarditis is a condition that affects the pericardium, which is the thin membrane that covers the heart. There is fluid between the pericardium’s two layers, which minimizes friction.

The pericardium protects the heart against infections and other issues, and it prevents heart overexpansion when there is a greater volume of blood. It also lubricates the heart and ensures that it is in the proper place in the chest wall.

When the pericardium is inflamed, red, swollen, and irritated, this condition is known as pericarditis. The pericardium’s two irritated layers rub against each other, causing pain and other symptoms. These symptoms may feel more severe when breathing in deeply, swallowing, lying down, or coughing.

The Symptoms of Pericarditis

The most common symptom of pericarditis is chest pain; this occurs in around 85 to 90 percent of cases. It’s also typically the first symptom experienced. This pain is usually felt on the left side of the chest, and it may spread to the shoulders, neck, jaw, or arms.

Pericarditis chest pain may be very sharp or create a stabbing feeling, and it often happens out of nowhere, leading many to assume that they are experiencing a heart attack. In some cases, it can feel like a dull ache. Sitting up and leaning forward can help to reduce the severity of the pain.

This heart condition can also cause trouble breathing, fatigue, weakness, and anxiety. Sufferers may also develop a dry cough without any fluid or mucus, experience heart palpitations, or notice swelling in the legs, abdomen, feet, or ankles.

Symptoms can vary depending on the cause of each patient’s pericarditis. Viral pericarditis can result in congestion, stomach issues, a runny nose, and a cough, while bacterial pericarditis can cause chills, raised white blood cell levels, and a fever.

How Long Do People Experience Pericarditis Symptoms?

Typically, symptoms of pericarditis occur for anywhere from two to six weeks. In some cases, they may last longer.

When symptoms recur after at least four weeks, the condition is considered recurrent pericarditis. This is the result of the immune system repeatedly causing pericardium inflammation.

What Should People Do If They Experience Pericarditis Symptoms?

The chest pain associated with pericarditis is similar enough to a heart attack that sufferers should immediately visit the ER when they first experience it. Pericarditis can also lead to further complications if left untreated and can even be fatal. Because of this, swift treatment is vital.

Learn More from Dr. Chauncey Crandall

Globally acclaimed cardiologist Dr. Chauncey Crandall provides concierge cardiology care for West Palm Beach, FL, patients. Contact The Palm Beach Clinic, located near the West Palm Beach Marriott and the CityPlace shopping center, to learn more about pericarditis. Set up your consultation today.

Skip to content